At best, a broken air conditioner will leave you uncomfortable in the face of South Carolina’s summer heat. At worst, a faulty cooling system could put you and others in your household at risk of heat stroke. To stay protected through the heatwaves, Robert S. Shealy Heating & Air Conditioning in West Columbia, SC, strongly recommends taking action as soon as your equipment shows signs of trouble. Servicing HVAC systems throughout Richland and Lexington Counties, this specialist highlights a few top warning signs that it’s time for professional air conditioning repair.  

5 Warning Signs That You Need Professional Air Conditioning Repair

1. Lack of Cool Air

If warm air is blowing out of the vents, your cooling system may need more refrigerant. When no air comes out, there could be a mechanical problem with the blower fan. You might also find that temperatures aren’t matching up with what is set on the thermostat, which is a sign that the interface is dirty, has faulty wiring, or needs calibration.

2. Unusual Sounds

When cooling systems produce odd noises, it’s likely related to a mechanical problem inside the unit. Specifically, squealing, grinding, or squeaking can indicate that the unit’s belt or bearings are broken. These sounds may also occur because internal components don’t have enough lubrication.   

3. Smoky Odor  

A properly functioning air conditioner shouldn’t produce any smells. If you smell smoke, turn the equipment off immediately, as it may be a sign of faulty wiring, which is a major fire risk.  

4. Moisture Near the Unit

When moisture appears around the A/C unit, turn the appliance off immediately and call an emergency HVAC contractor for an inspection. This excess moisture may indicate a refrigerant leak—a problem that can present serious health risks. While not as serious, pooling water near the unit could be due to a problem with the condensation drain tube. If proper drainage isn’t restored, mold and mildew growth can occur.     

5. High Energy Bills

Even if your air conditioner seems to be working fine, it’s wise to monitor your utility bills on a regular basis. If you see an unusual spike in energy costs, there’s a chance that your air conditioner is working harder than it should. In many cases, small, inexpensive repairs can improve efficiency and bring your power bills down while extending the lifespan of your air conditioner.

If you notice any of these warning signs, Robert L. Shealy Heating & Air Conditioning can fix your equipment to help you avoid a costly and inconvenient breakdown. Serving the West Columbia and Lexington, SC, communities for more than four decades, this experienced HVAC contractor knows how to identify problems quickly and provide air conditioning repairs to keep your system running reliably. Visit this heating and air specialist online to learn more about their services, and call (803) 796-1923 to schedule an appointment.